Roasted Tomato and Mozzarella Bao Buns
The combination of roasted tomatoes and melted mozzarella classically evokes a Mediterranean mood, but this time we serve it in a special guise – in a soft, steamed bao bun. Bao buns are a popular staple of Asian street food, harmonizing well with the sweetness of the tomatoes and the creamy texture of the mozzarella. When heated, the roasted cherry tomatoes take on an intense, almost jam-like flavor, which is further deepened by the garlic and olive oil. The warm tomatoes melt the mozzarella pieces placed inside, making each bite silky and succulent. As the tomatoes roast in the oven and the cheese melts, the kitchen fills with Mediterranean aromas. This bao bun is a perfect choice for vegetarian guests, a quick weeknight dinner, or even a special brunch dish. Try serving it with basil or a balsamic glaze!
Ingredients for this recipe
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Preparation Steps
1
Wash the cherry tomatoes, halve them, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with finely chopped garlic, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 12 minutes, or until slightly burst and caramelized.
2
Slice or tear the mozzarella into smaller pieces. Cut the carrot into julienne strips, and tear the lettuce by hand.
3
Steam the bao buns in a bamboo steamer or over a covered strainer for 6-8 minutes. Do not open the lid during steaming to keep the buns perfectly soft.
4
Open up the bao buns and place lettuce leaves in the bottom, followed by fresh carrot strips. Then add a few roasted tomatoes and the mozzarella pieces – the warm tomatoes will melt the cheese.
5
Sprinkle with black sesame seeds and garnish with microgreens. Serve immediately while the cheese is melted, the bao is soft, and the tomatoes are warm and juicy.
6
Tip: You can season the tomatoes with a pinch of oregano or balsamic vinegar before baking for an extra Mediterranean flavor.
